A cyclist taking part in a road race near Olveston died after he was involved in a collision with a vehicle.

The 41st annual Severn Bridge Road Race was abandoned following the incident at about 12.45pm today.

The rider sustained serious injuries to his head and chest in the incident near Tockington and subsequently suffered a cardiac arrest as a result of his injuries.

A volunteer paramedic providing medical cover for the road race went to his aid along with a GP who was taking part in the event. They carried out CPR on the rider until they were joined by critical care paramedics from Great Western Air Ambulance, who carried out more advance life support at the scene, a South Western Ambulance Service spokesman said.